900-Game NHL Veteran Calls it a Career Mid-Season

Kevin Shattenkirk couldn't find a home in free agency this summer, and now the 900-game veteran has officially called it quits.

Way back in 2007, the Colorado Avalanche selected Kevin Shattenkirk with the No. 14 overall selection, and now 17-years later, the veteran defenseman has officially called time on his NHL career.

The 35-year old last played with the Boston Bruins a season ago, and despite posting 24 points in 61 games played, he couldn't find a home this summer in free agency, and has now called it quits.

In an emotional thank you posted to social media, Shattenkirk sent a lengthy thank you to so many people that helped him throughout his career from his wife, his parents, his brother, his teammates, coaches and ultimately the fans.

While he was drafted by the Avalanche, Shattenkirk would play just 46 games with them before being traded to the St. Louis Blues, going on to represent Tampa Bay, Washington, New York, Anaheim and Boston throughout his 14 seasons in the NHL.

In that time, the New York native played in 952 games, tallying 103 goals and 484 points, and while he received just one All-Star honour in his career, he was as consistent as a player and a leader that the NHL has seen this decade.

The biggest year of his career came in 2019/20 with the Tampa Bay Lightning, where he would post 34 points in 70 games before reaching the mountain top and securing the only Stanley Cup of his fantastic career.

Shattenkirk's experience and leadership on and off the ice will no doubt lead him into a role in the NHL if he wants it, and while that could come as a coach, in development or in the front office, we can't wait to see what he does next.

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